Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance: perseverance, character; and character, hope.

My relationship with CHOG began when I gave birth to our 3rd little girl, at 32 weeks, on September 5th, 2017. What was supposed to be one of the happiest times of our lives became one of the scariest. Hampton was born at University Hospital, but was transferred to CHOG NICU 3 days later. She was diagnosed with supraventricular tachycardia. Little did we know this would be her home for the next 8 weeks. Although it was a very overwhelming place, we found comfort in the doctors and nurses who took care of Hampton.

Over the course of 8 weeks you watch many families come and go. We got to know some of the families who had a child in the NICU and learned many of them were not from Augusta. Listening to their constant fear of being unfamiliar with this area and having no family nearby, Bob and I realized how blessed we were to have such easy access to CHOG. Having a one and two year old at home, the daily trips to and from CHOG were made less stressful as the commute was minimal for us. We also were humbled by the many doctors and nurses we know in the community who specialize in children’s care and made sure we were taken care of at all times.

We became friends with an out of town couple who had given birth to their first child a few weeks early, very similar to Hampton. They told us how alone and scared they were when they first arrived at CHOG, but quickly settled in thanks to the amazing staff at CHOG and the Ronald McDonald House. It warms the heart to know that out of town couples are so well taken care of and that makes us Augusta natives proud.

Hampton was discharged in October, but unfortunately returned to CHOG in December for 10 days when she was diagnosed with RSV. It was a very traumatic experience for our family, but little H persevered. The nurses and doctors in the PICU took great care of us.

It hurts the heart to know that others in the future will have similar experiences with their precious child, but knowing that there is somewhere to turn to like CHOG should bring comfort and HOPE! You never realize how important a place like this can be until you need it. We are so incredibly grateful for this hospital and everything they have done and continue to do for our Hampton. Thank you Heart and Sole for all you do for CHOG, and the families who need it!